Byron: a poet dangerous to know

by Geoffrey Trease

Biography of the romantic poet known for his adventurous life.

Genres: Biography

165 pages, Hardcover

Published January 1, 1969

About the author

Robert Geoffrey Trease (1909-1998) was a prolific writer, publishing 113 books between 1934 (Bows Against the Barons) and 1997 (Cloak for a Spy). His work has been translated into 20 languages. His grandfather was a historian, and was one of the main influences towards Trease's work.

He is best known for writing children's historical novels, whose content reflects his insistence on historically correct backgrounds, which he meticulously researched. However, with his ground-breaking study Tales Out of School (1949), he was also a pioneer of the idea that children's literature should be a serious subject for study and debate. When he began his career, his radical viewpoint was a change from the conventional and often jingoistic tone of most children's literature of the time, and he was one of the first authors who deliberately set out to appeal to both boys and girls and to feature strong leading characters of both sexes.

Reviews

[Moireach · Rating 3 out of 5]

Well written and pleasant to read. I will definitely try to find a more detailed Byron's biography in the future!

[Jacob · Rating 3 out of 5]

The book itself is well enough written. Though likely intended for a younger audience, it doesn't shine over the more nefarious aspects of Byron's character. It paints him as a belligerent, That being said, the book feels a bit light around Byron's work, which appears only to aid in Trease's narrative goals. Which is fine, it just makes the book decent instead of great. An artist is defined by their work, it not by people, then by the degree pieces of themselves touch the world in which it it consumed. To miss that is to miss a great deal. It reads quickly and without any great conflict. It is worth an afternoon if you have a passing curiosity in Byron, poetry, or 20th century literature.

[Pete · Rating 3 out of 5]

Nice easy to read biography (aimed at young readers but does not exclude more juicy aspects of his life).